Moisture-resistant eye wear

ABSTRACT

Eyewear including an optical functional member, control electronics, and a sealed electrical connective element connecting the electronics to the optical functional member. The connective element can directly connect the electronics to the optical functional member, or can connect through an intermediate contact, e.g., a plug-and-receptacle. The connective element can be routed from the electronics, around a rimlock of the eyewear to the optical functional member. The connective element can be a conductive compressible member, such as conductive rubber. In some embodiments, the connective element can be a multiconductor cable.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to and incorporates by thereference in the entirety each of the following provisional patentapplications: U.S. Prov. Pat App. No. 61/524,567, filed Aug. 17, 2011;U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 61/537,205, filed Sep. 21, 2011; U.S. Prov.Pat. App. No. 61/563,937, filed Nov. 28, 2011; U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No.61/441,817, filed Feb. 11, 2011; U.S. Prov. Pat. No. 61/358,447, filedJun. 25, 2010; U.S. Prov. Pat. No. 60/929,419, filed Jun. 26, 2007; andU.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 61/638,290, filed Apr. 25, 2012.

The present application is a continuation-in-part of, and claimspriority to and incorporates by the reference in the entirety each ofthe following patent applications: U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/726,267, filed Dec. 24, 2012; U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/587,645, filed Aug. 18, 2012 and entitled “Moisture-ResistantElectronic Spectacle Frames”; U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/372,240, filed Feb. 13, 2012, and entitled “Electronic FramesComprising Electrical Conductors”; U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/169,996, filed Jun. 27, 2011, and entitled “High Performance, LowCost Multifocal Lens Having dynamic Progressive Optical Power Region”;U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/834,526, filed Jul. 12, 2010, andentitled “Electronic Eyeglass Frame”; U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/298,997 filed Nov. 17, 2011, and entitled “Electronic SpectacleFrames”; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/298,992 filed Nov. 17,2011, and entitled “Electronic Spectacle Frames”; and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/054,299 filed Mar. 24, 2008, and entitled“Electronic Eyeglass Frame”.

BACKGROUND

The present subject matter relates to various types of eyewear includingelectronic functional members, including, for example, electronicfocusing eyeglasses, electro-active eyeglasses, electronic eyewearproviding 3D capabilities, etc.

Unfortunately, it has been found that in some environments, particularlythose having high humidity or causing the wearer to sweat, commerciallyavailable electronic eyewear and frames may suffer from shorting ofelectronic connections and thus impede or cause the electronicapplication used with the eyewear to fail.

Thus there is a need for a solution to allow for electronic eyewear andframes to be even more robust in all environments including thosewhereby there is an abundance of moisture present, one whereby there arefewer electrical contact points exposed to the environment, and/or onethat involved fewer moving and/or open and shut electrical connections.

SUMMARY

The technology includes eyewear having an optical functional member, anelectronics module, and at least one sealed conductive element. Theelectronics module can include electronics for controlling the opticalfunctional member. The sealed electrical connective element connects theelectronics of the electronics module to the optical functional member.The optical functional member can include an electrical connector, andthe connective element can directly connect the electronics of a sealedelectronics module to the electrical connector of the optical functionalmember.

The present subject matter may be applied, by way of example only, inand/or with electronic focusing eyeglasses, electro-active eyeglasses,fluid lenses being activated by way of an electronic actuator,mechanical or membrane lenses being activated by way of electronics,electro-chromic lenses, electronic fast tint changing liquid crystallenses, lenses whose tint can be altered electronically, lenses that byway of an electrical charge can resist or reduce the attraction of dustparticles, lenses or eyeglass frames housing or having an electronicdisplay affixed thereto, electronic eyewear providing virtual reality,electronic eyewear providing 3D capabilities, electronic eyewearproviding gaming, and electronic eyewear providing augmented reality.

In some embodiments, the eyewear can include an intermediate electricalcontact. In those embodiments, the optical functional member can includean electrical connector, and the connective element can connects theelectronics of the electronics module to the electrical connector(s) ofthe optical functional member through the intermediate electricalcontact. The intermediate electrical contact can be aplug-and-receptacle electrical contact. In some embodiments, theintermediate electrical contact is located at one of: a rim of theeyewear, the rear ⅓ of the temple, the middle of the temple, the forward⅓ of the temple, the rim lock or hinge, of the eyewear, a surface of theoptical functional member, a frame front of the eyewear, an electronicdisplay, an electronic controller, and between the rim and the lens ofthe eyewear.

In some embodiments, the eyewear can include a temple and a rimlock. Inthose embodiments, the electronics module can be located in the temple,and the connective element can be routed from the electronics modulethrough the rimlock to the optical functional member. In someembodiments, the rimlock includes an upper rimlock and a lower rimlock,and the connective element is routed between the upper rimlock and thelower rimlock. The rimlock can include upper rimlock and a lowerrimlock, and the connective element can form a layer between the upperrimlock and the lower rimlock. The layer can be insulating. In someembodiments, the connective element can be a conductive compressiblemember that can be conductive rubber. In some embodiments, theconnective element comprises a multi-conductor cable.

The technology includes an eyewear frame that includes an electronicsmodule and at least one conductive element. The electronics moduleincludes electronics for controlling an optical functional member. Thesealed electrical connective element(s) can connect the electronics ofthe electronics module at a first end of the connective element, and canconnect to an optical functional element at a second end of theconnective element. The sealed electrical connective element can connectone electrical module to another electrical module or to a plurality ofdifferent electrical modules. In some embodiments, the opticalfunctional member includes at least one electrical connector, and theconnective element can directly connect the electronics of a sealedelectronics module to the electrical connector of the optical functionalmember.

In some embodiments, the frame includes at least one intermediateelectrical contact, and the optical functional member comprises at leastone electrical connector. In such embodiments, the connective elementcan connect the electronics of the electronics module to the electricalconnector of the optical functional member through the intermediateelectrical contact. In some such embodiments, the intermediateelectrical contact is a plug-and-receptacle.

The intermediate electrical contact is located at one of: a rim of theeyewear, the rear ⅓ of the temple, the middle of the temple, the forward⅓ of the temple, the rim lock or hinge, of the eyewear, a surface of theoptical functional member, a frame front of the eyewear, an electronicdisplay, an electronic controller, and between the rim and the lens ofthe eyewear.

In some embodiments, the eyewear frame can include a temple and arimlock. In such embodiments the electronics module can be located inthe temple, and the connective element can be routed from theelectronics module through the rimlock to the optical functional member.In some such embodiments, the rimlock can include an upper rimlock and alower rimlock, and the connective element can be routed between theupper rimlock and the lower rimlock. In some such embodiments, therimlock can include an upper rimlock and a lower rimlock, and theconnective element can form a layer between the upper rimlock and thelower rimlock. The layer can be an electrically insulating layer. Theconnective element can be a conductive compressible member, which can beconductive rubber. The connective element can be a multi-conductorcable.

The technology includes eyewear including at least one electricalconductor and at least one non-electrically-conductive grease coating aportion of the electrical conductor. In such embodiments, the grease canbe silicone grease.

The disclosed technology includes methods of assembling eyewear. Somesuch methods include coating a portion of at least one electricalconductor of the eyewear with non-electrically-conductive grease, whichcan be silicone grease. In some such methods, the grease can be appliedbetween surfaces of a conducting portion of a rimlock of the eyewear andan insulating layer of the eyewear.

The disclosed technology includes additional methods of assemblingeyewear. Such methods include affixing a portion of eyewire to a rimlockto form a first stage assembly, wherein each surface point of the firststage assembly comprises an single electrical node; bisecting the firststage assembly, forming an upper rimlock with upper eyewire and a lowerrimlock with lower eyewire; and coating the bisected first stageassembly with an electrically-insulating coating. Some such methodsinclude removing the coating from at least one area of electricalconnection.

The technology also includes eyewear including a lens comprisingelectro-active material, and in some cases a gasket. The electro-activelens, can be characterized by a lens edge, and can include at least oneelectrical contact on the lens edge. The gasket can be configured to fitaround the lens edge to be substantially resistant to the ingress ofliquid between the gasket and the lens edge. The gasket can have formedtherein an aperture to corresponding to the electrical contact. In suchembodiments, the electrical contact surface can be a conductivecompliant material fitted to the aperture to substantially resist theingress of liquid between the gasket and the electrical contact. Inother embodiments the connection from the connector to the lens oroptical functional member can be sealed by way of example only, anadhesive, caulk, or another material that forms a water resistantbarrier.

In some embodiments, an electrically conductive caulk can be used, whichis also moisture resistant and/or moisture proof.

In some embodiments, the technology can include an eyewear templeassembly that includes a temple body and an electronics module. Thetemple body can form a cavity therein, and can be configured to beremoveably attachable to eyewear. The electronics module can be housedin the cavity, and can be operable to perform a function other thancontrol of electro-active optics. In such embodiments, the templeassembly is configured to maintain the electronics module at least oneof moisture resistant, salt resistant, and moisture proof.

In some such embodiments, the electronics module includes at least oneof: a transmitter operable to transmit a signal in response a userinput; a sensor operable to sense at least one of: the environment ofthe electronics module, and a condition of the electronics module; andan output module operable to output at least one of: an acoustic signal,a visible light signal, and a vibration signal. In some such embodimentscontaining a sensor, the electronics module includes s at least one of atemperature sensor, a position sensor, an electromagnetic radiationsensor, GPS, and a pedometer.

In some embodiments of the temple assembly, the cavity can be formedwith an opening at a surface of the temple body, and a cover of theeyewear temple can seal the opening, in a fashion that electronicsmodule is maintained as at least one of moisture resistant, saltresistant, and moisture proof at least in part by the cover. In somesuch embodiments, the cavity can be formed with only one opening, andthe one opening is at a front surface of the temple body. In other suchembodiments, the cavity can be formed with only one opening, and the oneopening is at a wearer-facing surface of the temple body. In someembodiments of the temple assembly, the electronics module can be isreleasably secured in the cavity, and the electronics module itself canbe at least one of moisture resistant, salt resistant, and moistureproof.

In some embodiments, a sealed electronic module may house one or more ofan electronic sensor, manual controls and/or automatic controls. Inembodiments, eyewear may be configured to be placed in one or more of anautomatic mode, a manual on mode, and/or a manual off mode. Inembodiments, one electronic module may be provided to electrically powera pair of lenses, or two such electronic modules can be provided. Inembodiments, the electronic modules may be sealed such that they arewater resistant or water proof.

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein may be used to addresspressing needs of making electronic eyewear more moisture resistant andmore robust. This may allow more reliable performance from theelectronic eyewear and, thus, happier users. Electronic eyewear, orelectronic eyeglasses, may be understood as typically includingelectronic frames that provide an electrical connection to, by way ofexample only, electronic focusing eyeglasses, electro-active eyeglasses,fluid lenses being activated by way of an electronic actuator,mechanical or membrane lenses being activated by way of electronics,electro-chromic lenses, electronic fast tint changing liquid crystallenses, lenses whose tint can be altered electronically, lenses that byway of an electrical charge can resist or reduce the attraction of dustparticles, lenses or eyeglass frames housing or having an electronicdisplay affixed thereto, electronic eyewear providing virtual reality,electronic eyewear providing 3D capabilities, electronic eyewearproviding gaming, and electronic eyewear providing augmented reality.

Additional features, advantages, and embodiments of the invention may beset forth or apparent from consideration of the following detaileddescription, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood thatboth the foregoing summary of the invention and the following detaileddescription are exemplary and intended to provide further explanationwithout limiting the scope of the invention claimed. The detaileddescription and the specific examples, however, indicate only preferredembodiments of the invention. Various changes and modifications withinthe spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art from this detailed description.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the invention, are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention andtogether with the detailed description serve to explain the principlesof the invention. No attempt is made to show structural details of theinvention in more detail than may be necessary for a fundamentalunderstanding of the invention and various ways in which it may bepracticed. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates electro-active spectacles in accordance with anaspect of the present technology.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the electro-active spectacles depictedin FIG. 1 in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary configuration of electrical componentsof the electro-active spectacles in accordance with an aspect of thepresent technology.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of electrical connectivitybetween a battery and an electronic module depicted in FIG. 3 inaccordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 5 illustrates an electronic module in accordance with an aspect ofthe present technology.

FIG. 6 illustrates an electro-active lens in accordance with an aspectof the present technology.

FIG. 7 illustrates a portion of a frame in accordance with an aspect ofthe present technology.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of the frame depicted in FIG. 7 inaccordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 9 illustrates a portion of electro-active spectacles in accordancewith an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front a view of electro-active spectacles inaccordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 11 illustrates a portion of a right temple of electro-activespectacles in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 12-A and FIG. 12-B illustrate a gasket of the present technology.

FIG. 13 illustrates a representative block diagram of electro-activespectacles in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 14 illustrates a portion of a right temple of electro-activespectacles in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 15 illustrates a portion of a right temple of electro-activespectacles in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 16 illustrates an electro-active frame in accordance with an aspectof the present technology.

FIG. 17 illustrates electro-active spectacles in accordance with anaspect of the present technology.

FIG. 18 illustrates electro-active spectacles in accordance with anaspect of the present technology employing plug connections amongelectrical elements.

FIG. 19 illustrates a portion of a right temple of electro-activespectacles in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 20 illustrates a portion of a right temple of electro-activespectacles in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 21 illustrates a temple assembly in accordance with aspects of thepresent technology.

FIG. 22 illustrates an electro-active lens assembly according to anaspect of the present technology.

FIGS. 23A-23B illustrate portions of a temple assembly of electro-activeeyewear in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIGS. 24A-24C illustrate portions of a temple assembly of electro-activeeyewear in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.

FIG. 25 illustrates steps in an exemplary method of forming eyewear withelectrical connections according to an aspect of the present technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is understood that the invention is not limited to the particularmethodology, protocols, etc., described herein, as these may vary as theskilled artisan will recognize. It is also to be understood that theterminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention. It also is to be noted that as used herein and in theappended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include theplural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus,for example, a reference to “a lens” is a reference to one or morelenses and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical terms used herein have the samemeanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art towhich the invention pertains. The embodiments of the invention and thevarious features and advantageous details thereof are explained morefully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments and examples thatare described and/or illustrated in the accompanying drawings anddetailed in the following description. It should be noted that thefeatures illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale,and features of one embodiment may be employed with other embodiments asthe skilled artisan would recognize, even if not explicitly statedherein. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniquesmay be omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments of theinvention. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate anunderstanding of ways in which the invention may be practiced and tofurther enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments ofthe invention. Accordingly, the examples and embodiments herein shouldnot be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, which isdefined solely by the appended claims and applicable law. Moreover, itis noted that like reference numerals reference similar parts throughoutthe several views of the drawings.

While enabling embodiments of the present technology are disclosed inthe context of electro-active eyeglasses having at least oneelectro-active lens as an optical functional member, the technology canfind application where the optical functional member is other than anelectro-active lens, e.g., in fluid lenses being activated by way of anelectronic actuator, mechanical or membrane lenses being activated byway of electronics, electro-chromic lenses, electronic fast tintchanging liquid crystal lenses, thermo-chromic lenses, lenses that byway of an electrical charge can resist or reduce the attraction of dustparticles, lenses or eyeglass frames housing or having an electronicdisplay affixed thereto, electronic eyewear providing virtual reality,electronic eyewear providing 3-D capabilities, electronic eyewearproviding gaming, and electronic eyewear providing augmented reality.

FIG. 1 illustrates electro-active spectacles or eyeglasses 100 inaccordance with an aspect of the present technology. The electro-activespectacles 100 shown in FIG. 1 are fully rimmed eyeglasses comprisingleft and right temples and a frame front (the frame front can compriseleft and right eyewires or rims, and a bridge, as will be appreciated byone skilled in the pertinent art). Electro-active spectacles and framesof the present technology can be fully rimmed, partially rimmed, orrimless. The electro-active spectacles 100 can include a frame 102, afirst electro-active lens 104, and a second electro-active lens 106. Thefirst and second electro-active lenses 104 and 106 can each be anelectro-active lens as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/408,973 (hereinafter the '973 application), filed Mar. 23, 2009,entitled “Electro-Active Diffractive Lens and Method for Making theSame,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Ingeneral, the first and second electro-active lenses 104 and 106 can beany lens or optic capable of changing, varying or tuning the opticalpower they each provide with the application of electricity.

The right temple portion can be considered to be a first temple portionthat is positioned adjacent to the first electro-active lens 104. Theleft temple portion can be considered to be a second temple portion thatis positioned adjacent to the second electro-active lens 106. The bridgecan be considered to be part of the frame or to be a separate portion ofthe electro-active spectacles 100 that connects, joins or supports thefirst and second electro-active lenses 104 and 106. The electro-activespectacles 100 can include one or more power sources for powering thefirst and second electro-active lenses 104 and 106. As an example, eachpower source can include one or more batteries (e.g., conventionalrechargeable batteries and/or solar batteries). The electro-activespectacles 100 can also include electronics that can govern operation ofthe electro-active lenses 104 and 106. The electronics can comprise oneor more control units (e.g., a control unit matched to eachelectro-active lens) to determine when to activate and when todeactivate the electro-active lenses 104 and 106. The one or more powersources and the electronics of the electro-active spectacles 100 can behoused or contained within, or on, any portion of the frame 102. The oneor more power sources and the one or more control units of theelectro-active spectacles 100 can be grouped together or distributed ordispersed in any manner within, throughout, or on the frame 102.

The operation of the electro-active lenses 104 and 106 can besynchronized. That is, the one or more control units housed in the frame102 can coordinate the activation and deactivation of the electro-activelenses 104 and 106 such that the electro-active lenses 104 and 106 areactivated or deactivated at substantially the same time.

The one or more control units housed in the frame 102 can automaticallyoperate (e.g., activate and deactivate) the electro-active lenses 104and 106. As an example, the electro-active lenses 104 and 106 can beactivated or deactivated based on a user's head tilt as sensed by theone or more control units. The one or more control units can also enablea user to interact with the electro-active lenses 102 and 104. As anexample, a user can manually activate or deactivate the electro-activelenses 104 and 106, override automatic operation of the electro-activelenses 104 and 106, place the electro-active spectacles 100 into astandby mode (in which the electro-active lenses 104 and 106 are neitherautomatically or manually activated or deactivated), or power off theelectro-active spectacles 100.

The electronics of the electro-active spectacles 100 can include aprocessor, memory, a power source (e.g., a battery), a gyroscope, and anaccelerometer. As previously mentioned, these components can be groupedtogether or can be distributed within different portions of the frame102. As an example, all or a portion of these components can be groupedtogether to form a self-contained electronic module. The electro-activespectacles 100 can comprise a single electronic module that governssynchronized operation of both the first and second electro-activelenses 104 and 106. Alternatively, operation of the first electro-activelens 104 can be governed by a first electronic module and operation ofthe second electro-active lens 106 can be governed by a secondelectronic module. Under this scenario, the first and second electronicmodules can communicate using one or modes of electrical connectivity(e.g., wire(s) embedded within a portion of the frame, conductiveportion(s) of the frame, conductive metal layer(s) or core(s)encapsulated by non-conductive material, conductive layer(s) of theelectro-active lens(es) 104 and 106, optical link(s), wireless radiofrequency or magnetic field communication).

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the electro-active spectacles 100depicted in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the electro-active spectacles100 can comprise an electronic module (or control unit) 202. Asdescribed above, the electronic module 202 can include variouselectronics components. The electronic module 202 can be positioned nearthe front temple of the frame 102. The electronic module 202 can bepositioned within the frame 102 (e.g., in an area or cavity of the frame102) and can be removable and replaceable. Alternatively, the electronicmodule can be built into the frame 102 and form a part of the frame 102.The electronic module 202 can be located on an outer portion of a templeof the frame 102 (further from a wearer) or can be located on an innerportion of the temple of the frame 102 (closer to the wearer). Theelectronic module 202 can be positioned on a left temple or a righttemple of the frame 102 (i.e., on either side of the frame 102). Theelectronic module 202, when inserted into the temple of the frame 102,can be flush with the other portions of the frame 102. All or a portionof the electronic components used to operate the electro-active lens104, 106 can be contained within the electronic module 202.

The electronic module 202 can also control operation (or at least ensuresynchronized operation) of the electro-active lens 104, 106. Electricalconnections between the electronic module 202 and one or more of theelectro-active lenses 104 and 106 can be routed through the frame 102and/or the electro-active lenses 104 and 106 as will be described inmore detail below. According to an aspect of the present technology,connectivity between the electronic module 202 and one or more of theelectro-active lenses 104 and 106 can be accomplished by using a singleconductive wire.

In some embodiments of the present technology, a first electricalconnection (e.g., comprising one or more conductive links or wires) canbe used to provide connectivity between one or more power sources of theelectro-active spectacles 100 and one or more electronic modules 202 anda second electrical connection (e.g., comprising one or more conductivelinks or wires) can be used to provide connectivity between the one ormore electronic modules 202 and the one or more electro-active lenses(e.g., the electro-active lenses 104 and 106). For example, a batterypositioned within the frame 102 can be coupled to an electronic module202 also positioned within the frame 102 using a first conductive link.A second, distinct conductive link (e.g., electrically isolated from thefirst conductive link) can be used to couple the electronic module 202to the electro-active lenses 104 and 106.

In some embodiments of the present technology, the same electricalconnection (e.g., comprising one or more electrical wires) can be usedto couple the one or more power sources of the electro-active spectacles100, the one or more electronic modules 202 and the electro-activelenses 104 and 106 as will be appreciated by one skilled in thepertinent art. This can enable a power source to be positioned on oneside of the frame 102 (e.g., in a first temple) and an electronic module202 to be positioned on the other side of the frame 102 (e.g., in asecond temple) while using the same conductive link to simultaneouslyprovide power to the electronic module 202 and controlling signals fromthe electronic module 202 to the electro-active lenses 104 and 106. As aresult, the number of conductive links (e.g., embedded wires) positionedwithin the frame 102 can be minimized.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary configuration of electrical componentsof the electro-active spectacles 100. Specifically, FIG. 3 shows abattery 302 located near the end of the frame 102 of the electro-activespectacles 100. A portion of the end of the frame 102 is removed forillustration purposes only. The battery 302 can be a rechargeablebattery and can provide power to the electrical components locatedwithin the electronic module 202. The battery 302 can provide power toone or more electronic modules of the present technology.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of electrical connectivitybetween the battery 302 depicted in FIG. 3 and the electronic module202. A portion of the frame 102 is removed for illustration purposesonly. As shown in FIG. 4, conducting wires 402 can couple the battery302 to the electronic module 202. The conducting wires 402 can bepositioned within the frame 102 (e.g., embedded within the frame 102) ofthe electro-active spectacles 100. Conducting wires 402 are insulatedand capable of being heated and bent while retaining conductor andinsulator integrity in order to adjust the shape of temple. Theconducting wires can be a cable or a flexible cable

FIG. 5 illustrates the electronic module 202 in accordance with anaspect of the present technology. The electronic module 202 can containall or a portion of the electronic components that govern operation ofone or more electro-active lenses including a power source (e.g., arechargeable battery or a solar battery). As shown in FIG. 5, theelectronic module 202 can comprise a housing 502, first contacts 504 andsecond contacts 506. The housing 502 can contain the electricalcomponents of the electronic module 202—e.g., a processor, memory, powersource, and/or a gyroscope/accelerometer.

The first contacts 504 can provide electrical connectivity between theelectrical components of the housing 502 and other portions of one ormore associated electro-active lens (e.g., the first electro-active lens104). The second contacts 506 can provide electrical connectivity to amemory of the electronic module 506. The second contacts 506 can beused, for example, to program or reprogram the electronic module 202directly. Additional contacts (not illustrated for simplicity), or thefirst and/or second contacts 504 and 506, can also provide connectivityto a remote battery (e.g., the battery 302 depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG.4) or to another electronic module or control unit. Alternative oradditional contacts (e.g., an antenna) can allow wireless programming ofthe electronic module 202.

In general, the electronic module 202 can be positioned anywhere on theframe 102 (e.g., in any portion of the frame 102 having an area orcavity designed to accept insertion of the electronic module 202). Theelectronic module 202, as shown in FIG. 2, can be located near the fronttemple of a wide variety of frame types and styles. Specifically, theelectronic module 202 can be located within a portion of a frame that isfully rimmed, partially rimmed, or rimless.

The electronic module 202 can be removed and replaced with a new moduleor can be reprogrammed. As an example, the electronic module 202 can beinitially programmed with a first mode of operation or a firstprescription for a user. At a later time, the electronic module 202 canbe removed and reprogrammed using the second contacts 506 with a secondmode of operation or a second prescription for a user.

FIG. 6 illustrates an electro-active lens 600 in accordance with anaspect of the present technology. The electro-active lens 600 canrepresent one of the electro-active lenses 104 or 106. Theelectro-active lens 600 is depicted as a finished lens in FIG. 6. Thatis, the electro-active lens 600 has been edged and grooved to fit intoan eyeglass frame.

As shown in FIG. 6, the electro-active lens 600 can comprise a firstsubstrate (e.g., a top substrate) 602 and a second substrate (e.g., abottom substrate) 604. During an edging process, a groove 606 can beformed (e.g., near or between the interface of the first and secondsubstrates 602 and 604). The groove 606 can be used to position andstabilize the electro-active lens 600 within an eyeglass frame as isdone with conventional lenses.

The electro-active lens 600 can comprise a first electrical lead orconnector 608 and a second electrical lead or connector 610. The firstand second electrical leads 608 and 610 can provide power (e.g., a drivesignal or a control signal) to the electro-active region of theelectro-active lens 600. In particular, the first and second electricalleads 608 and 610 can link or connect the electro-active region of theelectro-active lens 600 to a power source and electronic components thatcan be housed within an associated eyeglass frame (e.g., the electronicmodule/control unit 202 depicted in FIG. 5). The first and secondelectrical leads 608 and 610 can comprise any conductive materialincluding, but not limited to, silver ink. The first and secondelectrical leads 608 and 610 can be painted, applied or otherwisedeposited onto the transparent conductive layers placed on thesubstrates 602 and 604.

To ensure or improve connectivity, after edging and grooving theelectro-active lens 600, a small quantity of conductive material, paintor paste can be placed on top of the first and second electrical leads608 and 610. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, a first conductivematerial 612 can be placed in the groove 606 on top of the firstelectrical lead 608 and a second conductive material 614 can be placedin the groove 604 on top of the second electrical lead 610. The firstand second conductive materials 612 and 614 can be substantiallytransparent and can comprise an indium tin oxide (ITO) paste or a paintcontaining silver particles (e.g., silver ink).

FIG. 7 illustrates a portion of a frame 700 in accordance with an aspectof the present technology. The frame 700 can provide electricalconnectivity between the electro-active lenses (not depicted in FIG. 7for simplicity) and the electrical components used to operateelectro-active lenses.

The frame 700 can include an upper portion of the right eye-wire or rim702 and a lower portion of the right eye-wire or rim 704. For a fullyrimmed frame, the lower portion 704 can extend underneath anelectro-active lens to a bridge 706. For a partially-rimmed frame, thelower portion 704 generally does not extend to the bridge 706.

The frame 700 can include an electronic module 202 and an area to acceptan electronic module 202. A first conductor 708 can be positioned withina groove of the upper rim portion 702. A second conductor 710 can bepositioned within a groove of the lower rim portion 704. The first andsecond conductors 708 and 710 can comprise flexible, compressiblematerials. When an electro-active lens, e.g., the electro-active lens600 depicted in FIG. 6, is positioned within the frame 700, the firstand second conductors 708 and 710 can be compressed to fit in the grooveof the upper and lower rim portions 708 and 710, respectively, and thegroove 606 of the electro-active lens 600. The first conductor 708 canbe positioned to make contact with the first conductive material 612.The second conductor 710 can be positioned to make contact with thesecond conductive material 614.

The frame 700 can include an upper conducting member 712, a lowerconducting member 714 and an insulating or isolation member 716. Theupper conducting member 712, the lower conducting member 714 and theinsulating member 716 can physically couple the temple of the frame 700to the eye-wire portion (i.e., the upper and lower rim portions 702 and704).

The upper conducting member 712 can be one link in the electricalconnectivity between the electronic module 202 and the first conductor708. The first conductor 708 can provide connectivity to the firstconductive material 612 (and, as a result, connectivity to the firstelectrical lead 608) depicted in FIG. 6. The lower conducting member canbe one link in the connectivity between the electronic module 202 andthe second conductor 710. The second conductor 710 can provideconnectivity to the second conductive material 614 (and, as a result,connectivity to the second electrical lead 610) depicted in FIG. 6. Theinsulating member 716 can ensure that the connectivity path between theelectronic module 202, the upper conducting member 712 and the firstconductor 708 remains insulated or electrically separated from theconnectivity path between the electronic module 202, the lowerconducting member 714 and the second conductor 710.

Any portion of the upper conducting member 712 and the lower conductingmember 714 can provide a conductive link. As an example, the entirety ofthe upper and lower conducting members 712 and 714 can be conductive(e.g., made of metal and coated with a non-conductive material) or aportion of the upper and lower conducting members 712 and 714 can beconductive (e.g., an internal portion that is encapsulated bynon-conductive material).

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of the frame 700 depicted in FIG. 7.As shown in FIG. 8, the frame 700 can be assembled by connecting theupper conducting member 712, the insulating member 716 and the lowerconducting member 714 to the upper rim portion 702 and the lower rimportion 704. The first conductor 708 and the second conductor 710 canthen be positioned in the groove of the upper rim portion 702 and thelower rim portion 704, respectively. The first and second conductors 708and 710 can be positioned in areas where they will make contact with thefirst conductive material 612 and the second conductive material 614,respectively.

The components illustrated in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 (namely, the upperconducting member 712, the lower conducting member 714, the insulatingmember 716, the upper rim portion 702, the lower rim portion 704, thefirst conductor 708 and the second conductor 710) can be used to form aportion of the frame 700 as a partially-rimmed frame or a fully-rimmedframe and to provide connectivity between an electronic module of thepresent technology and an electro-active lens of the present technologyfor each type of frame (and a variety of styles therein).

For a fully-rimmed frame, both the upper rim portion 702 and the lowerrim portion 704 can extend from the upper conducting member 712 and thelower conducting member 714, respectively, to the bridge 706. For apartially-rimmed frame, generally only the upper rim portion 702 extendsfrom the upper conducting member 712 to the bridge 706 while the lowerrim portion 704 does not extend to the bridge 706.

When the frame 700 is implemented as a fully-rimmed frame or apartially-rimmed, the first conductor 708 can be of any size or length.That is, the first conductor 708 can extend along any portion of theupper rim 702 to make electrical connectivity with a desired lead of theelectro-active lens 104. When the frame 700 is implemented as afully-rimmed frame, the second conductor 710 can similarly be of anysize or length to make electrical connectivity with a separate or seconddesired lead of the electro-active lens 104. However, when the frame 700is implemented as a partially-rimmed frame, the second conductor 710will be of the same length or shorter than the lower rim portion 704.

Electro-active eyewear or electronic eyewear may be exposed to moistureand liquids. Such moisture may come from the natural environment (e.g.,rain, snow), from the human body in the form of oils and perspiration,and from consumer products such as liquid lens cleaners and cosmetics.The ingress of such materials into and between the electronic componentsof the eyewear can cause damage, e.g., electrical short circuits. Inparticular, salt residue, e.g., left over from dried perspiration orexposure to salt water, salt spray, or salt fog, can facilitate evensmall amounts of moisture to form an unintended conductive path inelectro-active eyewear.

For example, a rimlock such as the rimlocks shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8may wick moisture into its internal surfaces. If this moisture is water,then the result may be a temporary electrical short circuit across therimlock (e.g., between metal components 712 and 714), which can resultin a hazy or non-functional lens. When the water dries, then normaloperation is typically restored.

If the moisture is perspiration, then over time the accumulation ofsalts and oils due to repeated exposure can result in permanentelectrical shorts and/or make the frame even more susceptible to otherforms of moisture. Additionally, if the electrical path includesspring-loaded “pogo” pins, such as described in International Pat. App.No. PCT/US2010/020498, exposure to perspiration may corrode and bindsuch pins, resulting in an unreliable connection between the module andthe rim lock.

Also, if the lens and physically compliant conductive materials areexposed to perspiration, then these materials can break down bothphysically and chemically. Specifically, the conductive primers and inksthat are applied to the lens 104 to establish the electrical edgeconnections may be susceptible to perspiration and can break down overthe course of a few weeks, resulting in a lens with high seriesresistance and a hazy on-state appearance.

Consider a type of rimlock which is assembled by attaching (e.g.,welding, soldering, brazing) a piece of eyewire to one metal rimlockcomponent that combines components 712 and 714 such as shown in FIG. 8).This assembly, forming a single electrical node, is then coated with anelectrically-insulating color finish and lastly, the coated assembly isbisected (e.g., sawn, cut) to form the upper and lower eye-wire andrimlock portions. One drawback to this approach is that bisecting thisassembly after coating exposes uncoated metal that, when exposed tomoisture, may create an electrical short.

In some embodiments of the present technology, the rimlock is attached(e.g., welded, soldered, brazed) to the eye-wire (thus forming a singleelectrical node), bisected (e.g., sawn, but not necessarily in half, toform two separate electrical nodes), and then coated withelectrically-insulating color finish. In such embodiments, there are noexposed metal surfaces from which to create a short circuit. Once theframe has been completely coated with finish, said finish can be removedonly in the areas where electrical connections are required, e.g., atthe very end of the rimlock where electrical connectivity to the modulevia pins such as pogo pins can occur). In some embodiments, areas inwhich electrical connection is required are temporarily coated with aremovable layer before the finish coating is applied, and then thetemporary coating, along with and finish coating directly over it, isremoved. By limiting the surface of exposed metal, the risk ofmoisture-induced and liquid-induced electrical shorts can be reduced aswell.

In some embodiments of the present technology, a water repellentmaterial can be used to inhibit moisture and liquids from filling spacesbetween components of electro-active eyewear such as rimlock components.Electrically-insulating greases, such Dow Corning® 111 valve lubricantand sealant, can be useful in this regard. Electrically-insulatinggrease can be applied while the frame is being assembled. A syringeequipped with a soft plastic tip can be used for application. Within thecontext of the rimlock shown in FIG. 8, electrically-insulating greasecan be applied to the mating surfaces between the rimlock and theplastic insulating spacer, e.g., the surfaces where upper rimlock 712mates to insulator 716, and where lower rimlock 714 mates to insulator716. Other cavities, holes, and spaces between parts, such as those forscrews and bushings used to assemble the rimlock can be filled or coatedwith electrically insulating grease.

FIG. 9 illustrates a portion of electro-active spectacles 900 inaccordance with an aspect of the present technology. The electro-activespectacles 900 are implemented as rimless spectacles. That is, no upperor lower rim supports the electro-active lens 104.

As shown in FIG. 9, the electro-active spectacles 900 can include anelectronic module 202 and an area to accept an electronic module 202.The electronic module 202 can be electrically coupled to theelectro-active lens 104 using upper conducting member 902 and lowerconducting member 904 (similar to upper conducting member 712 and lowerconducting member 714 depicted in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8). Both the upper andlower conducting members 902 and 904 can be isolated or insulatedconductors having a protected, internal conductive routes (e.g., aconductive wire) enclosed by a nonconductive material (e.g., a plastic).Alternatively, the upper and lower conducting members 902 and 904 canentirely comprise conductive material and can be coated withnon-conductive material.

The frame of the electro-active spectacles 900 can support theelectro-active lens 104 using upper support member 910 and lower supportmember 912. As an alternative, one of the upper and lower supportmembers 910 and 912 can be used. Both the upper and lower supportingmembers 910 and 912 can be positioned through holes residing in theelectro-active lens 104. The frame of the electro-active spectacles 900can also be supported by upper contact 906 and lower contact 908. Boththe upper and lower contacts 906 and 908 can be positioned through holesresiding in the electro-active lens 104. The upper and lower contacts906 and 908 can be compression pin connectors having a portion that canmake electrical contact with appropriate elements of the electro-activelens 104.

While simultaneously supporting the electro-active lens 104, the uppercontact 906 can make electrical contact with a first electrical lead ofthe electro-active lens (e.g., the first electrical lead 608 depicted inFIG. 6). Similarly, the lower contact 908 can support the electro-activelens 104 while also providing electrical contact to a second electricallead of the electro-active lens (e.g., the second electrical lead 610depicted in FIG. 6).

Both the upper contact 906 and the upper support member 910 can formpart of an arm or extension of the upper conducting member 902. Theupper contact 906 and the upper support member 910 can comprise one ormore conductors (e.g., a wire) insulated or contained by an insulatingmaterial (e.g., plastic). The upper contact 906 and the upper supportmember 910 can be positioned in front of the electro-active lens 104(and connect through to the back of the electro-active lens 104—as shownin FIG. 9) or can be positioned behind the electro-active lens 104 (andconnect through to the front of the electro-active lens 104—not shown inFIG. 9). The lower contact 908 and the lower support member 912 can bepositioned in a manner similar to the upper contact 906 and the uppersupport member 910 pairing (and can form part of an arm or extension ofthe upper conducting member 904).

FIG. 10 illustrates a front a view of electro-active spectacles 1000 inaccordance with an aspect of the present technology. The electro-activespectacles 1000 are implemented as partially-rimmed spectacles.Electrical connectivity between a right side of the electro-activespectacles (e.g., from a right-side portion of a frame 1002) to a leftside of the electro-active spectacles (e.g., from a left-side portion ofa frame 1004) can be provided in a variety of ways and is not limited topartially-rimmed designs. Electrical connectivity between the right-sideportion 1002 and the left-hand portion 1004 can enable a singleelectronic module (e.g., the electronic module 202) located on eitherside to govern operation of both electro-active lenses 104 and 106.Further, this connectivity can ensure synchronized operation of theelectro-active lenses 104 and 106 even if each of the electro-activelenses 104 and 106 is driven by separate electronic modules.

One or more conducting elements (e.g., conducting wires) can be embeddedin a right-side upper frame or rim member 1006, a left-side upper frameor rim member 1008 and a bridge 1010 (as well as a left-side lower frameor rim member and a right-side lower frame or rim member for some framedesigns). The conducting elements can be embedded and surrounded byinsulating material. Embedding one or more conducting elements in theright side upper frame member 1006, the bridge 1010 and the left-sideupper frame member 1008 can enable an electronic module on either sideof the electro-active spectacles 1000 to control and/or synchronizeoperation of both electro-active lenses 104 and 106.

Rimless frames generally do not include the right-side upper framemember 1006 or the left-side upper frame member 1008. Rimless frames,however, do generally include a bridge 1010. Electrical connectivelybetween the right-side portion 1002 and the left-hand portion 1004 of arimless frame can be accomplished by using conductive elementsincorporated into the manufacture of the electro-active lenses 104 and106. Specifically, the bridge 1010 can electrically connect (e.g., usingan embedded conductive link or a conductive link adjacent to orconnected to the bridge) one or more conducting elements of theelectro-active lenses 104 and 106 (e.g., using one or more ITO layers)which are themselves coupled to the right-side portion 1002 and theleft-hand portion 1004, respectively, of a spectacles lens. Electricalconnectively between the right-side portion 1002 and the left-handportion 1004 of a rimless frame can also be accomplished by usingconductive wires positioned within the grooves an electro-active lens(e.g., the groove 606 depicted in FIG. 6) to couple the right-sideportion 1002 to the left-hand portion 1004. Portions of the groove onthe top part of the electro-active lens or on the bottom part of theelectro-active lens can be used to house or contain one or moreconductive wires. The conductive wires positioned within such a groovecan be insulated.

According to an aspect of the present technology, one or more conductivewires can be embedded in the upper rim members, the bridge and/or thelower rim members of electro-active spectacles and frames of the presenttechnology during a mold casting process. That is, when the upper rimmembers, the bridge and/or the lower rim members are formed using acasting process, one or more conductive wires can be cast over when theupper rim members, the bridge and/or the lower rim members are prepared.Generally, thicker conductive wires can be used during such a process.Nylon is an example material that can be used to mold over one or moreconductive wires to from the upper rim members, the bridge and/or thelower rim members.

According to an aspect of the present technology, one or more conductivewires can be embedded in the upper rim members, the bridge and/or thelower rim members of electro-active spectacles and frames of the presenttechnology as each frame component is assembled. More specifically, anyof the upper rim members, the bridge and/or the lower rim members thatwill be used to embed one or more conductive wires can be fabricated bytwo or more individual or separate pieces. For example, the upper rimmembers can be formed from two substantially symmetrical pieces ofsubstantially the same shape—a front piece and a back piece whichindividually may appear to be a portion of the upper rim member split inhalf lengthwise. Prior to assembling the front and back pieces to form acomplete upper rim member, one or more wires can be embedded (e.g., in agroove formed by mold or machined into the front and/or back pieces)between the front and back pieces (i.e., at the interface between thefront and back pieces). The front and back pieces used to form thecomplete upper rim member can subsequently be combined, for example,using an adhesive.

According to an aspect of the present technology, one or more conductivewires can be embedded in the upper rim members, the bridge and/or thelower rim members of electro-active spectacles and frames of the presenttechnology after the frame is assembled. Specifically, one or moregrooves can be machined into the upper rim members, the bridge and/orthe lower rim members that can be used to contain one or more conductivewires. The machined grooves can then be filled or covered with materialto cosmetically hide the conductive wires. The assembled frame can thenbe polished to hide or mask the area in which the wires are embedded.Acetate is an example material that can be manipulated in this fashionto embed one or more conductive wires.

In FIG. 11, all of the frame and hinge components have been removedshowing only parts of a frame 1100 including electronic module 1102,flexible conductors 1104 and 1106, and physically compliant conductivematerials 708 and 710. In this embodiment flexible conductors 1104 and1106 are permanently attached to electronic module 1102 and nearly allelectrically conductive portions are coated or enclosed withinelectrically insulating materials. The only electrically conductiveportion exposed is the connection between the ends of the flexibleconductors 1104 and 1106 and the physically compliant conductivematerials 708 and 710, which is required to make electrical connectionto the lens. The benefits of this embodiment are that the conduction ofelectrical signals is separate (physically and electrically) from thelens mounting and temple hinge components and that nearly all of theelectrically conductive surfaces are insulted from environmentalmoisture and other liquids. Furthermore, such a design does not requirethat the frame (or frame components) be constructed from conductivematerials (e.g. metal), thus further reducing the risk for electricalshorts.

FIG. 11 illustrates a portion of a right side of frame 1100, such asframe portion 700 of electro-active spectacles in accordance with anaspect of the present technology. The portion of the right side of aframe 1100 depicted in FIG. 11 can be coupled to an electro-active lens(not depicted in FIG. 11 for simplicity) through first conductor 708 andsecond conductor 710 as described in connection with FIG. 7. Anelectronics module 1102, similar to electronics module 202, is shown.The electronics module 202 can be coupled to the first conductor 708through first conductive link 1104. The electronics module 1102 canfurther be coupled to the second conductor 710 through a secondconductive link 1106.

The connection between each of links 1104, 1106, and electronics withinmodule 1102 can be direct and sealed at the entrance to the module, orinsulated leads (themselves sealed at entrance to the module 1102) canprotrude from the module (not shown). The module 1102 itself can besealed and potted so as to inhibit undesirable effects of liquid andmoisture on the electronics therein.

The first and second link conductors 1104 and 1106 can be shaped andconstructed to tolerate bending of other frame members (not depicted inFIG. 11 for simplicity) when the electro-active spectacles are openedand closed. The first and second link conductors 1104 and 1106 cancontain one or more conducting elements (e.g., conducting wires) and canenclose them with insulating or non-conductive material or canthemselves be entirely conductive. The links 1104, 1106 can be containedin a flexible conductive cable 1108, as shown with respect to a portion1500 of the right side of a frame in FIG. 14.

In embodiments the electronic module which is located within or on thetemple of the electronic eyeglass frame comprises a flexible conductivecable, such as cable 1108, which connects the electronics within theelectronic module. This flexible conductive cable can be connecteddirectly to the electronics within the electronic module (in which casethe one end of the flexible conductive cable) is sealed within theelectronic module or it can be connected directly by way of twoinsulated leads that protrude from the end of the electronic module. Ineither event, the flexible electronic cable may provide a constant andflexible electrical connection to the electronics housed within theelectronic module. It should be pointed out that the electronic moduleis sealed, potted and is largely moisture proof.

The flexible conductive cable can be of a length that begins within theelectronic module and exits the temple either on the side of the templeor on the front end piece of the temple closest to the hinge of thetemple and then bypasses the hinge connection between the temple and theframe front, and proceeds to plug into the back side of the frame frontclosest to the wearer. The flexible conductive cable can also be made tobegin with the two conductive compressible members (by way of exampleonly, conductive rubber) and then proceeds once again to bypass thehinge connecting the temple to the frame front and then on thru the backof the frame's front into the side or front end of the temple connectingto the module. The flexible cable can also connect by way of beingincorporating thru the insulation of the bridge between the upper andlower rimlock or the flexible conductive cable can be designed as itpasses between the upper and lower rimlocks to become the insulator thatseparates the upper and lower rimlock from one another.

In some embodiments the flexible conductive cable may be directlyconnected to two conductive contact points located within the rim of theeyeglass frame, on the lens surface, connected to the lens or framesurface. In other embodiments the flexible conductive cable may connectindirectly by connecting with contact points located within the rim ofthe eyeglass frame or on the lens surface. When connected indirectly theflexible conductive cable may connect to an intermediate conductive pathby way of a moisture resistant connection or connections.

These two conductive contact points may be made of a compressibleconductive material; by way of example only, conductive rubber. Theflexible conductive cable provides a completely sealed and moistureproof barrier from the sealed electronic module to that of the twoconductive contact points (which are spatially removed and/or insulatedfrom one another) which make electrical contact to that of the lens or adisplay located on or in the lens. The conductive cable being flexibleallows for the cable to be flexed or bent as the temple of theeyeglasses or eyewear is being opened and shut. Also the flexibleconductive cable allows for in certain frame designs or styles theflexible conductive cable to be threaded or inserted thru certain framemembers still allowing for a completely sealed connection from theelectronic module to that of the electronic connection points within theframe's eye wire or rim.

In some embodiments, the flexible conductive cable may be directly orindirectly connected in a similar manner to two conductive contactpoints on or connected to an electronic display and or controller,affixed to the eyeglass frame front, or the lens, or housed within theeyeglass frame front or the lens.

In some embodiments, such as those involving a video display, firstconductor 708 and second conductor 710 can be connected to the display.In various embodiments, conductors 1104 and 1106 can be semi-rigid orrigid for at least some of their length. The first and second linkconductors 1104 and 1106 can be considered to be continuous conductivelinks since they provide an uninterruptable physical connection betweenthe module 1102 and the conductive elements of the electro-activelenses, e.g., 612, 614 via conductive elements 708 and 710.

Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, another aspect of the present technologyfor reducing the risk of liquid/moisture damage to electro-activeeyewear is illustrated. As described above with reference to FIG. 6,physically compliant conductive material, e.g., 612, 614, can be usedalong a portion of the edge of lens, e.g., 600. In some embodimentsinsulating materials can be used along the remainder of the lens edge.In such an approach, moisture, oils, and salt may accumulate, and overtime degrade the connections. In some embodiments of the presenttechnology, a gasket, e.g., 1200 of compliant, but electricallyinsulating material, e.g., silicone, can be used to create a morecompliant, and liquid/moisture-resistant fit for the lens around itsedge. In some embodiments, the gasket 1200 can stretch around thecircumference of the lens, resisting the ingress of moisture, oils,salt, and liquids. To enable electrical connectivity to the lens,apertures 1202 can be provided that accommodate physically compliantconductive material, e.g., 612, 614, formed to mate with the gasket.

FIG. 12B shows sectional views including portions of the gasket withoutthe physically compliant conductive material 614 (upper view), and withthe physically compliant conductive material 614 (lower view).

FIG. 13 illustrates a representative block diagram of electro-activespectacles 1300 in accordance with an aspect of the present technology.The electro-active spectacles 1300 can represent the electro-activespectacles of the present technology described above (e.g., theelectro-active spectacles 100). The electro-active spectacles 1300 caninclude a right electro-active lens 1302 and a left electro-active lens1304. The right and left electro-active lenses 1302 and 1304 canrepresent the first and second electro-active lenses 104 and 106described earlier. The electro-active spectacles 1300 can include aright control unit 1306 and a left control unit 1308. The left and rightcontrol units 1306 and 1308 can each represent an electronic module 202,or a portion thereof, described above.

The right control unit 1306 can include an isolation switch 1310, drivercircuits 1312, and transmitter circuits 1314. The driver circuits 1312can generate a driver signal for operating (e.g., activating) the rightelectro-active lens 1302. For example, to activate the rightelectro-active lens 1302, the driver circuits 1312 can provide, generateor transmit a driver signal or activation signal. Further, to deactivatethe right electro-active lens 1302, the driver circuits 1312 can simplystop providing, generating or transmitting the driver signal.

The transmitter circuits 1314 can generate a synchronization signal forcoordinating operation of the right and left electro-active lenses 1302and 1304. Specifically, the transmitter circuits 1314 can transmit asynchronization signal instructing the left electro-active lens 1304 toactivate or deactivate. As an example, the left electro-active lens 1304can be activated based on receipt of the synchronization signal or asynchronization signal of a first type instructing activation. Further,the left electro-active lens can be deactivated based on the absence ofthe synchronization signal or receipt of a synchronization signal of asecond type instructing deactivation. As a result, the right and leftelectro-active lenses 1302 and 1304 can be activated and deactivated atsubstantially the same time.

The isolation switch 1310 can determine when the driver circuits 1312and the transmitter circuits 1314 can access a conductive link 1316coupling the right electro-active lens 1302 to the control unit 1306.The conductive link 1316 can comprise one or more conductive wires. Theconductive link 1316 can represent one or more of the connectivitymechanisms depicted and described above (e.g., the routing andconnectivity features illustrated in FIG. 11 and described above).

When the electro-active spectacles are implemented with only a singlecontrol unit (e.g., the control unit 1306), then the control unit 1306can control operation of both the right and the left electro-activelenses 1302 and 1304. Under such a scenario, the isolation switch 1310and transmitter circuits 1314 can be optional. Further, the left andright electro-active lenses 1302 and 1304 can be activated atsubstantially the same time by a driver signal provided by the drivercircuits 1312.

A communications link between the right and left control units 1306 and1308 can comprise any portion of the conducive link 1316, conductiveelements within the right electro-active lens 1302, a bridge conductivelink 1318 contained within or adjacent to a bridge of the electro-activespectacles 1300, conductive elements within the left electro-active lens1304, and a conductive link 1320. The conductive link 1320 can compriseone or more conductive wires and can represent one or more of theconnectivity mechanism depicted and described above (e.g., the routingand connectivity features illustrated in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 anddescribed above). The communications link between the right and leftcontrol units 1306 and 1308 can also include or alternatively include aframe conductive link 1222 (shown in phantom in FIG. 13).

The frame conductive link 1322 can include one or more conductive wireswrapped over the right and left electro-active lens 1302 and 1304—e.g.,either embedded within a portion of the frame and/or contained in agroove of the right and left electro-active lenses 1302 and 1304 asdescribed above. The frame conductive link 1322 can also includeconductive elements of the right and left electro-active lenses 1302 and1304 (e.g., one or more layers of ITO or other transparent conductivelayers of the right and left electro-active lenses 1302 and 1304). Forexample, the frame conductive link 1322 can be a wireless link that usesconductive layers of the right and left electro-active lenses 1302 and1304 as antennas to facilitate communication and/or synchronizationbetween the right and left electro-active lenses 1302 and 1304.Alternatively, other conductive elements can be embedded within theelectro-active spectacles of the present technology to facilitatecommunication and/or synchronization between the right and leftelectro-active lenses 1302 and 1304. One or more of these embeddedantennas could also provide a wireless communication link between theelectro-active spectacles of the present technology and a remotecommunication device.

Overall, the right control unit 1306 can communicate with the leftcontrol unit 1308 and/or can operate the left electro-active lens 1304using a single conductive wire or link. The single conductive wire canalso be used to operate the right electro-active lens 1302. The singleconductive wire or link can be embedded within a portion of a frame andcan include conductive elements of the electro-active lenses.

The left control unit 1308 can include an isolation switch 1324, drivercircuits 1326, and receiver circuits 1328. The driver circuits 1326 cangenerate a driver signal for operating (e.g., activating) the leftelectro-active lens 1302. The receiver circuits 1326 can receive andprocess a synchronization signal transmitted by the right electro-activemodule 1306. The isolation switch 1324 can determine when the drivercircuits 1312 and the receiver circuits 1328 can access the conductivelink 1320 coupling the left electro-active lens 1304 to the control unit1308.

The receiver circuits 1326 can listen for a synchronization signaltransmitted over conductive link 1320. The receiver circuits 1326 canlisten periodically or randomly for a specific or random amount of time.Once a synchronization signal is received, the control unit 1308 canoperate accordingly—i.e., either activate or deactivate the leftelectro-active lens 1304 using a driver signal transmitted by the drivercircuits 1328.

The transmitter circuits 1314 can transmit a synchronization signal inresponse to detection of a head tilt change of the user (e.g., detectedby a gyroscope or accelerometer included in the right control unit1306—not illustrated for clarity) or manual command issued by the user.The synchronization signal transmitted by the transmitter circuits 1314can be coded to distinguish it from noise and to prevent falsetriggering.

In FIG. 14, all of the frame and hinge components have been removedshowing only parts of a frame 1500 including electronic module 202,flexible conductors 1104 and 1106, physically compliant conductivematerials 708 and 710, and flexible cable 1108. In this embodiment, theflexible cable 1108 has one end sealed within the module 202. Thissealing is substantially water-resistant or water-proof. The other endof cable 1108 may terminate in a plug (not shown) that mates with areceptacle on the backside of the eyewear frame front (or on an edge ofthe frame front, or on one of the end pieces of the frame front) wherebyconnection is provide to the lens. In other embodiments, the plug andreceptacle can be reversed.

FIG. 15 illustrates a portion 1600 of the right side of the frameshowing the module 202, flexible cable 1108, first conductor 708, secondconductor 710, rim wire lower portion 704, lower rimlock 1610, andinsulating layer 1620, with the flexible cable 1108 bypassing the hingeelements formed in the insulating layer to the right and around to thefront of the eyewear. Flexible conductive links 1104 and 1106 can beused in place of flexible cable 1108. In embodiments of the presenttechnology, such as those illustrated in each of FIG. 11 and FIG. 14,the conductive links 1104, 1106, and the cable 1108, can be of lengththat begins with the electronic module 200 and exits the temple eitheron the side of the temple to the front end piece of the temple closestto the hinge of the temple, and then bypasses the hinge connectionbetween the temple and the frame front, and enters the frame front.

FIG. 16 illustrates electro-active frame 1700 in accordance with anaspect of the present technology. Electro-active lenses can be mountedwithin the electro-active frame 1700. For simplicity, a portion ofelectronics 1702 that can be used to govern operation of theelectro-active lenses are shown. The electronics 1702 can represent aportion of an electronic module 202 described above and/or can representconductive elements positioned to provide electrical connectivitybetween a temple of the electro-active frame 1700 and a front portion ofthe electro-active frame 1700. The electro-active frame 1700 is shown asincluding electronics 1702 on only one side of the electro-frame 1700but is not so limited.

As further shown in FIG. 16, the electro-active frame 1700 can includeconductive leads 1704 and 1706 and conductive link 1708. Conductive link1708 can provide electrical connectivity from one side of theelectro-active frame 1700 to the other side of the electro-active frame1700. Conductive leads 1704 can provide electrical connectivity betweenelectronics 1702 and a first electro-active lens mounted within theelectro-active frame 1700. Conductive leads 1706 can provide electricalconnectivity between the conductive link 1708 and a secondelectro-active lens mounted within the electro-active frame 1700.

As shown in FIG. 16, the conductive link 1708 can be embedded orpositioned within the electro-active frame 1700. The conductive link1708 can include any number of conductive elements (e.g., wires) thatcan be insulated or not insulated. If the electro-active frame 1700 usesdriver electronics on each side of the frame 1700 (e.g., a master andslave driver electronics or electronic modules 202) then as few as onlyone single wire can comprise the conductive link 1708). If theelectro-active frame 1700 has driver electronics on only one side of theelectro-active frame 1700, then at least two wires or conductiveelements can be used. The conductive link 1708 can be positioned insidethe electro-active frame 1700 in accordance with any of the methodsdescribed above for embedding conductive links including, but notlimited to, (1) embedding during a mold casting process; (2) embeddingduring an assembly process of the front frame portion of theelectro-active frames 1700; and (3) embedding after assembly of theelectro-active frames by providing a groove or route for the conductivelink 1708. The conductive link 1708 can also use or can alternativelycomprise the conductive layers of the electro-active lenses of thepresent technology that can be positioned into the frames 1700 asdescribed above.

FIG. 17 illustrates electro-active spectacles 1800 in accordance with anaspect of the present technology. The electro-active spectacles 1800 caninclude an electronic module 202. The electro-active spectacles 1800 canalso include conductive link 1802. Conductive link 1802 can include anynumber of conductive elements (e.g., wires) that can be insulated or notinsulated. Conductive link 1802 can provide electrical connectivitybetween the electronic module 202 and the electro-active lens 104 andthe electro-active lens 106.

As shown in FIG. 17, a portion of the conductive link 1802 can bepositioned or embedded within a portion of the frame of theelectro-active spectacles 1800. For rimless spectacles, the conductivelink 1802 can be routed through a groove in an electro-active lens(e.g., the groove 606 depicted in FIG. 6). As further shown in FIG. 17,the conductive link 1802 can be routed adjacent to a bridge 1804 of theelectro-active spectacles 1800. For example, the conductive link can berouted through tubing 1806 that is positioned adjacent to the bridge1804.

Referring to FIG. 18, embodiments of the present technology usingplug/receptacle connections are illustrated in the context ofelectro-active eyewear 1900. In some of those embodiments, theelectrical module 202 has connector leads, e.g., 1108 that have one endsealed within the module 202. This sealing is substantiallywater-resistant or water-proof. The other end of cable 1108 terminatesin a plug 1910 that mates with a receptacle (not shown) on the backsideof the eyewear frame front (or on an edge of the frame front, or on oneof the end pieces of the frame front) whereby connection is provide tothe lens. In other embodiments, the plug and receptacle can be reversed.A plug/receptacle connection 1930 also can be used to connect the module202 with a battery 302. The plug/receptacle connections can beunpluggable or permanent once plugged. In some embodiments, theintermediate electrical contact is located at one of: a rim of theeyewear, the rear ⅓ of the temple, the middle of the temple, the forward⅓ of the temple, the rim lock or hinge, of the eyewear, a surface of theoptical functional member, a frame front of the eyewear, an electronicdisplay, an electronic controller, and between the rim and the lens ofthe eyewear.

Referring to FIG. 19, the portion 1100 shown in FIG. 11 is shown as aportion 2000 from another perspective with the body of the temple 2010.The module 202 is shown inside the body of the temple 2010, theconductive links 1104 and 1106 are shown connecting to upper portionfirst conductor 708 and lower portion second conductor 710 respectivelyafter being routed around a non-conducting upper rimlock 2012 and lowerrimlock 2014. Embodiments of the present technology similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 19 can use a cable, e.g., 1108, instead of separateconductors 1104, 1006.

In some embodiments, links 1104, 1106 and cable 1108 can be made fromconductive compressible members. Conductive compressible members caninclude conductive rubber and metal rubber. Metal rubber is a name forconductive plastic polymers with metal ions, it is a self-assemblingnano-composite, and is flexible and durable across a broad range ofpressures, temperatures, tensions, exposure to chemicals. It retains itsproperties upon being returned to a ground state. It can carry data andelectrical power.

In some embodiments, the flexible conductive cable itself can be aninsulating element between the upper rimlock and the lower rimlock. Insome embodiments, first conductor 708 and second conductor 710 are notused, and the conductive links 1104, 1106 (either as separate links oras elements of cable 1108) connect directly to the leads and conductivematerial (e.g., 608/612 and 610/614, respectively) of the electro-activelens (e.g., electro-active lens 600).

In some embodiments, the conductive links 1104, 1106 (either as separatelinks or as elements of cable 1108) are connected to contact pointlocated within the rim of the eyeglass frame, on the lens surface,connected to the lens or frame surface. In other embodiments of thetechnology, the conductive links 1104, 1106 (either as separate links oras elements of cable 1108) are connected to contact points on orconnected to an electronic display or controller, affixed to theeyeglass frame front or the lens, or housed within the eyeglass framefront or lens. In various embodiments, the conductive links 1104, 1106(either as separate links or as elements of cable 1108) can beconductive sealed wires.

It is noted that the connectivity mechanisms illustrated in FIG. 11, anddescribed above, can be used for any type of frame style—that is, forfully rimmed, partially-rimmed and rimless frames of the presenttechnology.

Referring to FIG. 20, a portion 2100 of electro-active eyewear inaccordance with the present technology is shown. Module 202 is shownconnected to conductive links 1104 and 1106 as described in connectionwith FIG. 11, but using upper rimlock 712 and lower rimlock 714 asconducting members connect to links 1104 and 1006 respectively.Insulating layer 716 is shown disposed between upper rimlock 712 andlower rimlock 714. A cable, e.g., 1108 can be used in place ofconductive links 1104 and 1106.

Referring to FIG. 21, electro-active eyewear 2110 in accordance with thepresent technology is shown. Module 2116 is shown in temple portion 2114and connected via conductor 2112 to a battery 2117 in the distal end ofthe frame. Flexible conductive cables are also provided between thetemple portion 2114 and conductive material of the front portion of theframe.

In some embodiments, a device may be provided including a lenscomprising at least a first electrical contact, a lens housing holdingthe lens, where the lens housing comprises at least a second electricalcontact, and a conductive element disposed between the first and thesecond electrical contact, wherein the conductive element electricallyconnects the first and second electrical contacts. The first device mayfurther comprise a barrier layer that is disposed so as to cover atleast a portion of the conductive material. The “barrier layer” may bedisposed so as to cover the conductor (or a portion thereof) at or nearthe periphery of the lens such that it may not be exposed to theexternal the location between the electro-active lenses and the lenshousing typically tends to be where the conductors are exposed to theexternal environment. The barrier layer may be moisture resistant, suchthat it may prevent moisture from contacting the electrical connections.In some embodiments, the barrier layer of moisture resistant materialmay comprise a polymer substance.

In some embodiments, the barrier layer may be applied or disposed inareas of the electronic spectacles between two components (such asbetween the lens housing and the electro-active lenses). In someembodiments, these components of the electronic spectacles may becoupled in advance, and the barrier layer may be applied in a laterprocess (e.g. as part of a finishing or sealing process after theelectrical connections have been formed). This may be preferred because,for instance, the barrier layer may function to prevent the electricalconnection at the interface between the components from being exposed tothe external environment. Thus, in some embodiments, once the barrierlayer is set, access to this interface may be limited. However,embodiments are not so limited, and the barrier layer may be applied atany suitable time.

The inventors have found that in some embodiments it may be preferredthat the barrier layer may comprise a material that has a viscosity thatis thin enough such that it may be applied or injected into the areasbetween the components of the electronic spectacles. As noted above, insome embodiments the barrier layer may be applied to prevent or limitcontact with moisture (e.g. water) and, therefore, it may be preferredthat the viscosity of the barrier layer material be comparable to water.In this manner, the barrier layer may be applied to (and therebydisposed in) the same areas that would otherwise be accessible to thismoisture. In some embodiments, where the barrier layer may comprise apolymer material (such as a two component epoxy), after the barrierlayer has been applied to the electronic spectacles, it may be cured toset the material in place. In general, the barrier layer may be curedusing any suitable process, such as visible light curing, ultra-violetcuring, and/or thermal curing. In some embodiments, where thermal curingis used, the material of the barrier layer may be chosen such that itmay be cured at a low enough temperature that the other components ofthe electronic spectacles (e.g. the lenses, lens housing, and/orelectronics) are not affected by the increase in temperature.

The inventors have also found that, in some embodiments, it may bepreferred that the material that comprises the barrier layer be flexibleand/or soft enough such that it does not damage (or damage othercomponents, such as the lens) when experiencing the typical forces ofdaily use. For instance, when the barrier layer is disposed in the areabetween the lens housing and the lens component, there may be forcesapplied to either one of, or both of these components in variousdirections. If the barrier layer is too rigid, this force may be appliedto the lens, which could cause chipping or cracking. This may result,for example, in exposure of the electrical contacts, damage to the lens,and/or one or more components could be decoupled.

An exemplary embodiment that comprises a barrier layer applied toelectronic spectacles so as to prevent or limit exposure of theelectrical contacts between a lens and a lens housing to the outsideenvironment (including to moisture) is shown in FIG. 22. The electronicspectacles comprise a lens housing 2201, a conductor 2202 (in this case,shown as a compliant conductive material), conductive paint 2203 thatforms a part of an electrical path to one or more electrical componentsof the lens 2204, and a barrier layer 2205. As shown in FIG. 22, in someinstances a space or area may exist between the lens housing 2201 andthe lens 2204 shown as air gap 2206. As noted above, this may be createdduring the manufacturing process (e.g. the lens housing 2201 and aportion of the lens 2204 do not fit tightly so as to seal the componentsthere between from exposure to the outside environment) and/or maydevelop through use of the spectacles. On the opposite side of the airgap 2206 shown in FIG. 22 is a barrier layer 2205 that has been disposedso as to insulate the conductor 2202 from the external environment. Thebarrier layer 2205 is shown as disposed within the area between the lenshousing 2201 and the lens 2204. As noted above, the barrier layer 2205could have been injected into this region between these components, andmay have been cured thereto so as to be coupled to the lens housing 2201and/or the electro-active lens 2204.

FIGS. 23A and 23B illustrate further embodiments of the presentinvention. The electronic module 2300 shown in FIG. 23A includes a flexcircuit 2310 with two conductive buses 2320 and 2330 for makingelectrical contact to the front surface of an electro-active lens. Themodule includes a drive circuit 2340 placed above a rechargeable battery2350. Below the battery is a recharging coil 2360. The charging coil isused to inductively recharge the battery without direct contact. In thisway, the module may be hermetically sealed while still allowing thebattery to be recharged without breaking a moisture resistant seal. Atilt sensor 1070 is also attached to the electronic module. A manualswitch 1080 is attached to the top of the electronic module and isintegrated with a sealing diaphragm 1090. This module is sealed with anepoxy, silicone, or similar water resistant material to prevent waterfrom contacting the electronic components. This module is shaped to fitinto a universal frame electronic component as illustrated in FIG. 23B.

FIG. 23B shows a universal electronic frame component 2301. Theuniversal electronic frame component comprising a housing 2311 forholding the electronic module described in FIG. 23A. A set of threadhinge bolt 2321 and 2331 are mounted on the housing 2311 foraccommodating a wide variety of frame stem styles to be attached to theuniversal electronic frame component. The top of the housing 2311 has anaperture to allow a manual switch 2341 to extend outward so as to beaccessed by the wearer. Extending out of an opening in the housing aretwo electrical contacts 2351 and 2361 from the buses described in FIG.23A. Near these contact points, there is a through hole 2371 to allow amounting pin to pass through the front of the universal electronic framecomponent for attaching to an electro-active lens.

A module 2400, as illustrated schematically FIG. 24A and in crosssection in FIG. 24B, contains a battery 2430 for powering anelectro-active lens and related drive circuitry, a printed circuit board2420 with drive and control electronics, and a switch 2410. The modulemay also contain a membrane switch to allow for manual control of theelectro-active lens. FIG. 24C illustrates the module 2400 placed in aneyeglass frame 2450. The frame has a frame stem section 2440 near thefront of the frame but also well in front of a frame hinge 2460 thatconnects a stem 2480 to the front of the frame. The module is preferablyplaced behind the frame stem section, provided that the frame is not ofa full rimless design. In the event of a full rimless design, theinventive electronic module or modules would fit within or near thespace (right spatial void and left spatial void) anterior to the hingeand would then attach to the lens. In certain other inventiveembodiments where there is no hinge (hinge-less temples) and eyeglassframes that have a continuous temple that attaches directly to the framefront or directly to the lens, the module would preferably be locatedwithin or near the space (right spatial void and left spatial void). Infact, the module can be located anywhere within these two spatial voids.

The module may further include one or more of the following: a manualswitch (for example, a touch button, photo-detector, motion detector,capacitive touch sensor), a controller and/or micro-processor, a powersource (for example, a small battery), a sensor (for example, one ormore miniature or micro tilt switches, accelerometer, micro gyro, rangefinder, view detector, imager), an antenna, a transmitter, a transceiveror a receiver. The module preferably houses any of the aforementionedelectrical components in a substantially water-proof and wearresistant/moisture resistant environment and is preferably hermeticallysealed. In the event of a malfunction of one or more of the electroniccomponents housed within the module, the module can be replaced withouthaving to repurchase a complete pair of new electronic eyewear (lensesand frames) or just the frames. It should be pointed out that in certainapplications, a single inventive electronic module may be sufficient,and in others, two or more modules may be needed. The embodimentsdescribed in FIGS. 23 and 24 allow for modification of any number ofexisting frames that otherwise were not originally designed to supportelectronics for driving electro-active lenses.

In general, the inventors have found that in some embodiments, anysurface or substrate may be utilized to dispose the electroniccomponents thereon prior to insertion into a partial enclosure. However,it may be preferred (such as when a touch switch is utilized as a sensorfor the electronic eyewear) that the electronic components be disposedon a surface of the touch switch. As used in this context, a “touchswitch” may refer to a type of switch that may be touched by an objectto operate (or an object may come into close proximity to the switch).For embodiments comprising electronic eyewear, it may be preferred thata capacitive touch switch is used because such switches may be moistureresistant, which the inventors have found is advantageous given thetypical exposure to, for example, perspiration from the wearer,environmental moisture (e.g. humidity, precipitation), moisture from thewearer's finger, etc. A “capacitive touch switch” may refer to anysensor that may utilize an electrical field to detect, for instance, thepresence of a human finger or other conducting object to activate aswitch. For example, when a conductive object enters the field (e.g.comes into contact with, or in close proximity to, the device), theswitch recognizes a change in the capacitance indicating an actuation.This may enable capacitive switches to be “sealed” (i.e. there may notneed to be any physical interaction with the sensing components) suchthat, as noted above, the switches and components thereof need not beexposed to external conditions (e.g. moisture).

Additional steps may also be performed as well in some embodiments. Forinstance, some embodiments include the step of depositing a conformallayer (e.g. an encasing or encapsulating layer) over the electronicassembly (i.e. comprising the capacitive touch switch and the electroniccomponents disposed thereon) using a film or other protective materiallayer. This conformal layer may be utilized to seal the electroniccomponents (and particularly the electrical connections between theelectronic components) to protect them from damage, particularlyexternal environmental damage. Thus, the conformal layer may generallybe moisture proof in some embodiments. However, the entire assembly maynot be covered by the conformal layer in some embodiments because one ormore electrical connections may be needed to, for instance, electricallycouple the electronic components in the electronics module to otherelectronic components on the electronic eyewear. Thus, during thedeposition of the conformal layer (e.g. the encasing or encapsulationprocess) a mask may be disposed over the electrical contacts that willbe used to make such connections. In some embodiments, rather than usinga mask, the entire assembly may be encased or encapsulated, and theconformal layer may be selectively removed from portions of the assembly(e.g. portions of the layer that cover the electrical contacts) toexpose the electrical contacts and allow one or more connections to bemade. The electronic assembly may then be inserted into a partialenclosure (e.g. an electronics module outer casing) and then disposedwithin the cavity of a temple of the electronic eyewear.

In some embodiments, the first method may further comprise the step ofapplying a conformal coating to the plurality of electronic components.As used in this context, a “conformal coating” may refer to any coatingthat is designed to substantially protect or enclose the electricalconnections of the plurality of electronic components (and/or thecomponents themselves) that are disposed on the capacitive touch switch.The conformal coating may also protect portions of the capacitive touchswitch as well. The conformal coating may be configured to prevent shortcircuits, foreign materials, atmospheric conditions (such as moisture)or any other external forces from affecting the electrical connectionsor damaging the electronic components. In this regard, the coating maygenerally be moisture proof or resistant. The conformal coating may haveany suitable thickness, but is typically less than 1 mm thick, and morepreferably less than 0.5 mm thick. The coating may comprise any suitablematerial, such as a brushed, spray or dip applied acrylic, urethane,silicone, or epoxy. It should be noted that components that are intendedto form one or more electrical connections with an external component(s)may be masked during the deposition/application process of the conformalcoating (or the coating may be later removed) so as to expose theelectrical contacts of these components.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart that illustrates exemplary steps that may beperformed in accordance with some methods provided herein. For example,at step 2501 a capacitive touch switch may be provided. The capacitivetouch switch may serve as the platform or “back bone” on which some ofthe electronic components of an electronics module or electronic eyewearmay be disposed. Next, at step 2502, one or more electronic componentsmay be disposed on a surface of the capacitive touch switch. Forinstance, electrical connectors may be disposed on the surface (e.g.using reflow soldering). However, embodiments are not so limited, andthe components may be coupled to the surface of the capacitive touchswitch in any suitable manner. In step 2503, one or more electricalconnections may be formed between the capacitive touch switch and theelectronic components that were coupled to the capacitive touch switchin step 2502. In some embodiments, the electrical connections may beformed simultaneously with step 2502, such as when reflow soldering isused; however, embodiments are not so limited.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 25, at step 2504 one or moreelectronic components may be coupled to the one or more of theelectronic components that were previously disposed on the capacitivetouch switch in step 2502. For instance, electrical connectors coupledto a PCB may be coupled to one or more electrical connectors that mayhave been reflow soldered to the capacitive touch switch. In thismanner, an electronic assembly may be created, wherein each additionalelectronic component may connect to another electronic component orcomponents. Each of these additional electronic components may beconsidered to be disposed on the capacitive touch switch, as used inthis context. At step 2505, one or more electrical connections may beformed, to the extent that this was not performed during step 2504.

In some embodiments, at step 2506, a conformal layer (e.g. an encasingor encapsulating layer) may be deposited over some or all of theelectronic assembly that is now disposed on the capacitive touch switch.The conformal layer may be used to seal and protect the electricalconnections that were formed in steps 2503 and/or 2505, as well as toprotect the electronic components themselves (such as from moisture,which could damage or affect device performance). As described above, tothe extent electrical contacts may be required so as to form electricalconnections with other components that are not part of the electronicassembly disposed on the capacitive touch switch, these electricalcontacts may be masked during the deposition process of the conformallayer, or the conformal (i.e. encapsulation) material may besubsequently removed to expose the electrical contacts. It should benoted that while it may be preferred in some embodiments to include aconformal layer, embodiments are not so limited. In some embodiments,the conformal layer may have a thickness that is less than 1 mm inthickness (preferably less than 0.5 mm).

At step 2507, the capacitive touch switch (which comprises the assemblyof electronic components that were disposed thereon in steps 2502 and2504) may be coupled to an enclosure. As described above, the enclosuremay comprise the outer casing of an electronics module or the cavity ofa temple of electronic eyewear. The step of coupling the capacitivetouch switch to the enclosure may comprise any suitable method,including pressure fitting the two components (if they are designed andconfigured to have the structural interface to do so). The enclosure mayprovide protection for the electronic components from external forces,but need not necessarily support the components because they may besupported by the capacitive touch switch. As noted above, the capacitivetouch switch, or at least a portion thereof, may comprise a materialthat may be firm enough to substantially maintain its shape andstructure, even with the electronic components disposed thereon.Finally, at step 2509, one or more electrical connections may be formedbetween the components disposed on the capacitive touch switch (e.g.that may now be disposed within an electronics module) and one or moreelectronic components disposed on the electronic eyewear.

While various embodiments of the present technology have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample and not limitation. Any conductive element described above(e.g., the upper or lower portions of the frame) can be entirelyconductive (and possibly coated with non-conductive material) or cancontain an embedded or buried conductive element (e.g., a conductivecore) and a non-conductive outer or surrounding layer. Further, anyconductive link—e.g., described or referred to as an electrical wire orconnection—could alternatively, or in addition thereto, be or include anoptical conductive link as will be apparent to one skilled in thepertinent art. The exemplary techniques for coupling or connecting theelectrical elements of the electro-active spectacles of the presenttechnology (e.g., the controlling electronics and power supplies andelectro-active lenses) using embedded conductive links can be used toembed one or more conductive optical links (e.g., one or more opticalfibers) as will be apparent to one skilled in the pertinent art.

These applications can be that of, by way of example only, by way ofexample only, electronic focusing eyeglasses, electro-active eyeglasses,fluid lenses being activated by way of an electronic actuator,mechanical or membrane lenses being activated by way of electronics,electro-chromic lenses, electronic fast tint changing liquid crystallenses, lenses whose tint can be altered electronically, lenses that byway of an electrical charge can resist or reduce the attraction of dustparticles, lenses or eyeglass frames housing or having an electronicdisplay affixed thereto, electronic eyewear providing virtual reality,electronic eyewear providing 3-D capabilities, electronic eyewearproviding gaming, and electronic eyewear providing augmented reality.

Overall, it will be apparent to one skilled in the pertinent art thatvarious changes in form and detail can be made therein without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the technology. Therefore, the presenttechnology should only be defined in accordance with the followingclaims and their equivalents.

We claim:
 1. An eyewear system comprising: an electronics modulecomprising electronics for controlling an electrical functional member;and at least one electrical connective element configured to connect theelectronics of the electronics module and the electrical functionalmember, wherein, at least one of the electrical connective element andthe electronics module is sealed.
 2. The eyewear system of claim 1:further comprising at least one intermediate electrical contact,wherein: the electrical functional member comprises at least oneelectrical connector, and the connective element connects theelectronics of the electronics module to the at least one electricalconnector of the electrical functional member through the at least oneintermediate electrical contact.
 3. The eyewear system of claim 1,wherein the eyewear system is an eyewear frame.
 4. The eyewear system ofclaim 1, wherein the eyewear system is electronic eyewear including alens.
 5. The eyewear system of claim 4, wherein the lens comprises theelectrical functional member.
 6. The eyewear system of claim 5, whereinthe electronic functional member is configured to provide an opticalfunction.
 7. The eyewear system of claim 4, wherein the electronicfunctional member includes at least one of an electro-active lens, anelectro-chromic lens, an electronic display, a sensor, a virtual realityfunction, an augmented reality function, a gaming function, and anactive 3D function.
 8. The eyewear system of claim 1, further comprisingthe electrical functional member, wherein: the electrical functionalmember comprises at least one electrical connector, and the connectiveelement directly connects the electronics of the electronics module tothe at least one electrical connector of the electrical functionalmember.
 9. The eyewear system of claim 8, wherein the intermediateelectrical contact is located at one of: a rim of the eyewear, a surfaceof the electronic functional member, a frame front of the eyewearsystem, an electronic display, and an electronic controller.
 10. Theeyewear system of claim 1, wherein the electronic functional memberincludes at least one of an electro-active lens, an electro-chromiclens, an electronic display, a sensor, a GPS, an alarm, a hearing aid, avirtual reality function, an augmented reality function, a gamingfunction, an audio output function, a microphone function, a recordingfunction, a transmitter function, a pedometer, and an active 3Dfunction.
 11. The eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the electricalconnective element is a conductive compressible member.
 12. The eyewearsystem of claim 11, wherein the conductive compressible member isconductive rubber.
 13. The eyewear system of claim 1, wherein theconnective element comprises a multi-conductor cable.